$600K Up For Grabs In Suffolk Downtown Revitalization Grants: Romaine

HAUPPAUGE, NY — Suffolk County is opening the application process for its 2026 Downtown Revitalization Grant Program, with $600,000 available to support capital improvement projects in and around local downtown areas, County Executive Ed Romaine said.

Applications will officially open Feb. 19 and must be submitted by May 15. The program provides partial funding for projects located on municipally owned property that are designed to enhance economic activity and create long-term, sustainable community benefits.

“Suffolk County’s downtowns are the heart and soul of our region, and we are committed to help our local municipalities and community partners prosper and help attract new visitors to spur our local economy,” Romaine said. He added that the initiative represents one of the county’s legacy grant programs and reflects continued investment in local communities.

Eligible applicants include municipalities working in partnership with organizations that represent downtown areas, such as business improvement districts, chambers of commerce, civic associations, historical societies, beautification groups, and local development corporations. Award recipients will be selected through a competitive process by the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization Citizens Advisory Panel.

Towns or villages partnering with community organizations must pass formal resolutions supporting the joint project. Proposed initiatives must be capital in nature and demonstrate a meaningful and lasting economic impact, with an expected project life span of at least 15 years.

Examples of eligible projects include public parking facilities, curb and sidewalk construction, pedestrian walkways, street lighting, public restrooms, accessibility upgrades, renovations to existing structure,s and cultural facilities. Funding requests must be at least $10,000.

The Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning will host an informational session for potential applicants on March 11. Program guidelines, applications, and additional session details are available through the county’s Downtown Revitalization program website.